Jackson Barrett: Adam Zampa’s control is the best in the world and he could spearhead Australia to a World Cup

Australia are facing a serious spin examination from three Asian teams in the super eight stage of this World Cup. And while they aren’t stocked with five international-calibre spinners like looming opponents Afghanistan and India, they are as well prepared for this period of the tournament as anyone. Adam Zampa is the spinner at the World Cup bowling with the best control. He has hardly put a foot wrong this tournament and Mitch Marsh has managed him expertly. If they go on to win the Twenty20 edition of the World Cup for a second time, they will almost certainly have Zampa to thank. Bangladesh had won the final overs of the powerplay during their innings on Friday, but the leg-spinner put a pin in it just as they were getting moving. Where they missed him was at the death as Hridoy upped the rate. If they’re brave enough, Australia could start turning to Zampa at the death. His control is so good at the moment he has struck an enviable balance between defence and attack. He had one loosener early — a wrong-un he dragged down and then watched race to the boundary — but he has taken them out of his game largely. Just nine runs were scored off his final over. He even shaped Australia’s decision to bowl first. It would also be the crowning glory of what is fast becoming one of Australia’s finest white-ball careers. Zampa sat out this year’s Indian Premier League to be ready for this tournament. He is fresh, firing and as well prepared as anyone. Long-time Australian white-ball gun Shaun Marsh told The West this week: “They have adapted probably better than any other team” in regards to the slow and turning wickets. India’s list of Ravindra Jadeja, Axar Patel, Kuldeep Yadav and Yuzvendra Chahal is imposing and Afghanistan have spun their way into contention. But Zampa and Australia — with Ashton Agar in the wings — appear the most prepared for this stage of the tournament.